Chris Ayers hired as Interim CEO at YMCA of Pulaski County

The YMCA of Pulaski County announced today that Chris Ayers has been hired for the position of Interim CEO, effective May 31, 2022.

“I am excited to begin working with the YMCA of Pulaski. For more than 70 years the Y has served this community by putting Christian principles into practice through programs like child care, summer camp, health and wellness, aquatics and youth sports. Healthy living, youth development and social responsibility is the purpose of the Y. My purpose in joining the Y team in Pulaski is to help make sure the Y continues to evolve and to thrive in its service to the community.”

Ayers has nearly 40 years of administrative experience in the YMCA. He most recently served the YMCA of Bristol as their CEO for 17 years, where he doubled the association’s budget and membership base, as well as secured $4,000,000 in capital, endowment, and annual funds. He also oversaw $3,000,000 in renovations. Chris currently resides in Bristol, TN with his wife Lori.

Board Presidentr Dr. Paige Cash said, “Chris comes to our YMCA with a wealth of experience in administration, volunteer community service, and coalition building. His energy and vision for the YMCA of Pulaski County is exactly what we were looking for in a leader. With Chris, we will continue to place the highest priority on expanding upon a strong foundation, inspire new organizational growth, and address the most critical issues facing our communities.

We are indebted to our departing CEO Jessie Woods for her leadership during the pandemic and her efforts to establish the YMCA as one of only two licensed childcare facilities in the county. Ms. Woods’ work to modernize and streamline the office management systems are also among her many accomplishments. Her warm welcome to all who visited the YMCA will be sincerely missed.”

The YMCA of Pulaski County has served this community since April, 1947, 75 years. During that time, it has provided childcare services, wellness and exercise opportunities and other community building programs as they work to live out their mission to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.